Inheritance: Selection
18.1 Biotechnology
What Is Biotechnology?
- Use of living organisms (bacteria, fungi, yeast) to make useful products.
- Relies on their rapid reproduction and ability to produce complex molecules.
Yeast In Biotechnology
- Bread-making → Yeast respires anaerobically → CO₂ makes dough rise.
- Alcohol production → Yeast ferments sugar → ethanol + CO₂.
Bacteria In Biotechnology
- Rapid reproduction.
- Contain plasmids (easy to insert foreign genes).
- Fewer ethical issues than using animals.
Written And Compiled By Sir Hunain Zia, World Record Holder With 154 Total A Grades, 7 Distinctions And 11 World Records For Educate A Change O Level And IGCSE Biology Full Scale Course
Fermenters (Large-Scale Production)
- Conditions controlled for growth and yield:
- Temperature.
- pH.
- Oxygen supply.
- Nutrient supply.
- Removal of waste products.
Enzyme Uses In Industry
| Enzyme | Application |
|---|---|
| Biological washing powders | Break down stains (proteins, fats) |
| Pectinase | Fruit juice production |
| Lactase | Produces lactose-free milk |
Key Points
- Microorganisms make enzymes, hormones, food products.
- Industrial production requires strict control of conditions.
Written And Compiled By Sir Hunain Zia, World Record Holder With 154 Total A Grades, 7 Distinctions And 11 World Records For Educate A Change O Level And IGCSE Biology Full Scale Course